Rita Marie Gillies

The Livestream Link will be available HERE on the day of the service and will go live approximately 5 minutes before the event.

Rita Marie Gillies passed away in her sleep on October 18, 2026, at the age of 92. Her life was filled with adventure, learning, faith, and service-and an enduring curiosity about the world and the people in it.

Born in Saskatoon to Harold and Denise Gillies, Rita grew up with her brother, Bob. With their father as their coach, both became childhood speed-skating champions. That early enthusiasm for life never left her.

Rita followed many callings. She was a teacher, social worker, librarian, registered nurse, licensed tour guide, and, well into her later years, a security guard. A lifelong student, she earned degrees in arts and education from the University of Saskatchewan, a master's in library science from McGill University, and a master's in theological studies through the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Saskatoon.

Her faith led her into religious life with the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, where she became Sister Marie Camilla. She taught at Sion Academy before an assignment took her to Jerusalem in 1965. Although she later left the congregation, her Catholic faith and her commitment to understanding other religious traditions remained central to her life.

Jerusalem held a special place in Rita's heart. She lived and worked there as a teacher, librarian, nurse, and tour guide, sharing her knowledge of the Holy Land's Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions with visitors. Guiding brought her great joy, combining her love of history, people, and discovery.

In 1985, Rita returned to Saskatoon to be with and care for her widowed mother. She continued serving others through the Saskatoon Centre for Ecumenism, directing Beit Avraham, the House of Abraham, and helping to found Multi-Faith Saskatoon. She welcomed newcomers, supported immigrants and refugees, and encouraged friendships across religious and cultural boundaries. In 2021, St. Thomas More College honoured her as a Distinguished Alumna.

To her family, she was our "Flying Nun"-independent, adventurous, and always ready for another journey. Whether travelling the world, riding on the back of a motorcycle, or proudly working security at 90, Rita lived on her own terms.

Rita was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Bob. She is lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews, Christopher, Carmen, Pamela, Valerie, and Rod Gillies, and their families, together with the many friends whose lives she touched.

Perhaps Rita said it best herself:

"My life has been filled with blessings-health, work, adventure, mentors, friends. For all, thanks be to God." 

She will be deeply missed and remembered with love, gratitude, and a smile.

The family invites you to a celebration of Rita's life at Saskatoon Funeral Home (338 4th Avenue North) on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.